On Saturday, September 14, 2024, over 600 dedicated individuals gathered in the heart of Kathmandu for Teach For Nepal’s highly anticipated Walkathon 2024. Held at Chhaya Center, Thamel, this annual event exceeded expectations, drawing a diverse group of college students, young professionals, and supporters. The shared mission? To raise awareness about the significant challenges students in rural public schools face every day.

The event began with an enthusiastic flag-off led by former Teach For Nepal board chair Reshu Aryal Dhungana, who highlighted the harsh realities faced by children in rural Nepal. She reminded participants of the long, often 5-6-hour journeys these students must make, only to be met with a lack of teachers and resources, preventing them from accessing quality education.

From there, the walkers embarked on a 5-kilometer route through bustling Kathmandu, starting at Chhaya Center and winding through Kesar Mahal, Durbar Marg, Ratnapark and New Road, before returning to their starting point. The route symbolized the daily struggles of rural students who walk for hours just to reach school, reminding participants of the stark educational inequities in the country.

Teach For Nepal’s Walkathon 2024 aimed to bring these pressing issues to the forefront and advocate for change. Walking together, participants were reminded of the resilience of rural students and the relentless efforts of Teach For Nepal Fellows who work tirelessly to support them.

The Walkathon was more than just a walk—it was a day filled with energy, determination, and solidarity. After completing the 5-kilometer route, walkers were greeted with a lively closing ceremony at Chhaya Center, featuring musical performances by students and an electrifying set by The Elements, one of Nepal’s iconic rock bands. Their performance energized the crowd, amplifying the spirit of unity and purpose that filled the day.

In addition to the entertainment, the event underscored the importance of ensuring quality education for every child, regardless of their socioeconomic background. The event also highlighted how each participant’s contribution of Rs. 1,000 would directly support Teach For Nepal’s core flagship program—the Fellowship—and how it will directly benefit the students in Fellows' classrooms.

This year’s Walkathon was a resounding success, with participation exceeding expectations. It showcased the growing support for Teach For Nepal’s cause and the increasing awareness of the urgent need to address the educational inequities that persist in rural Nepal.

During the event, an official announcement for Teach For Nepal Fellowship 2025 was also made by Ankush Uprety, head of Recruitment, Selection, and Matriculation, signaling an exciting opportunity for young leaders to be part of a larger movement dedicated to transforming education in Nepal.

As we reflect on Walkathon 2024, we are filled with hope and a strengthened resolve to tackle the challenges that lie ahead. Teach For Nepal is deeply grateful to the walkers, volunteers, management team, alumni, student alumni, and supporters who made this event possible. With your support, we are one step closer to achieving educational equity for every child in Nepal.

The journey toward a brighter future for Nepal’s education system is long, but with events like the Walkathon and the continued dedication of our community, we are moving closer to that goal. We can’t wait to see even more participants next year as we continue walking together for the future of Nepal's students.

Thank you for walking with us. Together, we are making a difference.

Check out the amazing moments from the Walkathon day. CLICK HERE | Official Photos